Australasia Cruise

Cruise to the opposite side of the world and discover a whole new world in Australasia - a continent full of contrasts.

Discover stunning beaches and vibrant cosmopolitan cities in Australia, while over in New Zealand there are towering mountains and lush valleys that are lined with surging waterfalls and unparalleled beauty.

Sun-drenched beaches to World Famous Skyscrapers

From world famous skyscrapers overlooking the beautiful, natural scenery, which varies between being lush and green to uninhabited and wild, sun-drenched locations and flourishing cultures you will find another world on the opposite side of the globe.

Venture to the white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters, which are ideal for swimming and snorkelling, or simply just relax on the radiant beaches. The next day, allow yourself to get lost amongst the magnificent metropolitan cities of Australia and New Zealand, particularly Sydney and Wellington.

Australasia Cruise Ports of Call

Adelaide

Welcome to South Australia and to the beautiful city of Adelaide. This gorgeous destination is located right at the mouth of the Torrens River and sits in the most strikingly beautiful location imaginable. Food and wine are always a key factor in deciding your cruise and the same applies for many when choosing destinations. Just beyond the city you will find the Barossa and Eden Valleys that together make up the Barossa region to produce some of the world’s most impressive wines. Not only is Adelaide perfect for oenophiles, it ticks every box for foodies as Adelaide is also famous for its exquisite range of restaurants and cafes. So if you’re looking for a friendly and vibrant city full of world-class beaches and an unhurried lifestyle with great food to match, Adelaide is the place to be.

Botanical Gardens to Aboriginal Artefacts

Located in the heart of the city, spend an hour or all day to explore the beauty and diversity of plants at The Botanical Gardens. With 50 hectares of maintained gardens the Botanical Gardens is home to an array of colour and also home to the Bicentennial Conservatory, famous for being the largest glasshouse in all of Australia. Many passengers enjoy a visit to the South Australian Museum, particularly to see the world’s largest collection of Aboriginal artefacts.

Home To Legendary Winemakers

Of course a visit to Adelaide as we mentioned before, would not be the same without a little culinary and winery indulgence. Many cruise lines will provide wine based excursions and these primarily revolve around the wineries along the Murray River and Barossa Valleys. These areas are prime grape growing regions and certainly worth experiencing when docking at this charming city. The wineries are a maximum of an hour’s trip outside the city and an excursion is always recommended to achieve the most from your day. Barossa Valley wine and scenery tours are always popular so it is certainly wise to pre-book and the same applies to wildlife parks.

Meet The Locals

Alternatively, wildlife lovers will relish the chance to take in Kangaroo Island where you can experience kangaroo, wallabies, koalas and platypuses up close in their natural habitats. Kangaroo Island is accessible via a convenient ferry crossing and even more can be seen at the Cleland Wildlife Park and in the Coorong National Park.

Adelaide delivers a fantastic cultural adventure with a thrilling and diverse range of sightseeing opportunities. The heart of the city remains the focal point and this is where the main history and highlights can be found. The former railway building has now been restored and now stands proudly once again whilst the many colonial buildings show off the city’s architectural prowess not forgetting the Holy Trinity Church.

Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary

Whether you wish to explore the inner city or head further afield, there is so much to choose from during your time in Adelaide. Should you feel like doing something completely different with your time in port, one exciting option on offer is the chance to enjoy a kayaking eco-adventure through the Adelaide Dolphin Sanctuary. This experience takes you through sheltered creeks to see the fascinating wildlife that call the mangrove forests home. Here you can also explore the Ship’s Graveyard Maritime Heritage Trail dating right back to 1856 also a haven for marine creatures.

Australia is always an exciting destination to visit during British winter months as of course they are celebrating their summer period. The hot, dry summers of Adelaide create a Mediterranean atmosphere amongst the streets, making it the perfect excuse for you to discover Adelaide on your next cruise.

Auckland

Auckland is a superb destination when cruising and its location is absolutely spectacular. Situated right between the Pacific Ocean and the Tasman Sea, this superb port of call boasts an impeccable harbour, filled with al fresco dining venues, perfectly placed to capture the views of the many yachts lining the shores. The harbour setting was dramatically enhanced following the city’s exciting association with the America’s Cup; hosting the world renowned event in 1999 and 2002. This brilliant event created a fabulous amount of investment for the city and as such the iconic harbour locations were revamped to boast a stunning design for all locals and visitors to appreciate.

The skyline here is absolutely breathtaking so be sure to head for one of the city’s most astonishing locations to enjoy it to the fullest. The location we speak of is the amazing revolving restaurant at the peak of the awe inspiring Sky Tower, renowned for being the tallest structure in the whole of the southern hemisphere, standing at an amazing 328 metres. This is a wonderful vantage point for a once in a lifetime photographic opportunity. You may prefer, however, to explore the city sights from sea level and should this be the case, another fantastic method of sightseeing is to head for the harbour and enjoy a trip aboard one of the famous ferries. This provides a great method of viewing the city with two options to choose from; heading for Devonport or Birkenhead.

Cultural highlights here come in abundance with so many enthralling sights to behold and an opportunity to discover New Zealand’s Maori culture and history. The Auckland War Memorial Museum is often a key highlight of many excursions here, which tells the story of the people and is notable for being one of the country’s most significant museums. Visits here include a fantastic guided tour but above all the main attractions come in the form of the superb collections of Maori and Polynesian artefacts such as an 82 foot war canoe.

There are many different excursion opportunities to choose from here, all boasting there distinctive charms and attractions. The city has so much to see and do that the hardest decision you will have to make will be where to head first. Opting for an excursion here is often wise as although the city is easily accessible and can be enjoyed individually with pleasure, the tours provided by cruise operators often allow passengers to see more and provide distinct perks for queue jumping. The countryside tours are also wonderful in every way. This spectacular port of call provides a gateway into such areas as the coastal community of Muriwai as well as the Kaipara Peninsula and Haumoana Farm. Heading for such areas can also be a great opportunity to enjoy sampling some of the local wine creations. Combining the special scenery with New World wines is truly magnificent. Most cruise lines will provide tours of three major wineries beginning at the Kumeu River Valley. Guests will sample New Zealand Rieslings, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blancs and Pinot Noirs for a sumptuous experience. The three wine estates include Soljans Winery, Matua Valley Wines and Nobilo Winery, all of which have received tremendous awards and accolades over the years.

Passengers looking to explore something unique and unusual here may wish to head for the underwater world experience of Kelly Tarlton’s SeaLife Aquarium. This brilliant experience is one of Auckland’s most popular attractions and houses an Antarctic encounter as well as a thrilling underwater experience. This venue is all about snow, ice and underwater encounters. Not only is the setting superb here but this venue offers guests the opportunity to come face to face with some of New Zealand’s most amazing sea creatures such as sharks, giant rays and turtles. For a rare opportunity, the centre also has the Antarctic Encounter, the only venue in the country housing sub Antarctic penguins and providing guests with the chance to witness King and Gentoo penguins up close and personal. As well as the incredible range of wildlife here, this area also provides visitors with an in depth experience of what it would have been like to live in the Antarctic over 100 years ago. This is done through a re-creation of a design from 1911 based on the hut of Captain Robert Falcon Scott.

Another once in a lifetime experience is to head for the Te Puia Thermal Reserve for an outstanding opportunity. Shore excursions here are often combined with the tremendous geysers as well as the astonishing mud pools of Rotorua.

Auckland is a fascinating city of architectural beauty and thrilling culture. The bustling atmosphere here is captivating in every way you could possibly imagine so be sure to enjoy all that this magnificent port of call has to offer for a phenomenal experience.

Bay of Islands

Myriad bays, beaches and 144 islands make up this stunning New Zealand cruise destination. The Bay of Islands is renowned for being the finest maritime park in New Zealand and is a fantastic port of call when cruising this beautiful part of the world. The climate here is fabulous and therefore The Bay benefits from a pristine natural environments with an incredible array of marine life including whales, penguins, dolphins, gannets, the big marling and much more.

The true wonder of this superb destination is how the area remains so gloriously unspoilt yet is actually a playground for adventure activities. The coastline is also a truly magnificent place for passengers looking to unwind and relax with an ambience of utter escapism and luxury indulgence.

Exploring the maritime and historic park is a great attraction when visiting here and gives passengers the chance to gain greater insight into the diversity between European civilisation and the fascinating Maori culture. The park is excellent and offers a great days adventure to explore either independently or via an excursion with your chosen cruise line. Another great excursion to experience the rich traditions of Maori people is to learn how the influence of English missionaries affected them. Here there is an excursion opportunity to visit the first inland missionary station, built by the British in the early 19th century. Te Waimate Mission is now the second oldest building in the entire country and has recently been restored to pay tribute to the missionaries. Here you can discover just how the British influence on tribal Maori took place and the history behind their relationship. From here you can experience a warm Maori welcome or powhiri as it’s known to the locals, before entering the carved marae (sacred place). A visit here takes you to see the Maori traditions and how the tribal history was formed. You’ll experience the communal facility and even take in the amazing sights of the local craftsmen at work. One of the Maori elders may even provide an explanation behind the carvings and significance of the marae. Of course this is just one way to explore the fascinating culture behind the Maori, there are many variations depending on the cruise line you are travelling with. Another fascinating tour option is to head up the Waitangi River with your own personal Maori host who will show you the paddling techniques of the tribe along with Waka chants as you weave amongst the estuaries and take in the spectacular eco-systems and scenery. The splendour of panoramic views and the stunning native forest colours are truly breath taking and the experience also gives you the chance to take in the spiritual waterfall, Haruru Falls, known as the pool of the sacred.

The Maori culture is truly captivating and an amazing experience when visiting here but if you prefer to relax and enjoy the enchanting scenery then perhaps opt for an island hopping tour aboard your own catamaran. Such scenic cruises whisk you away to an abundance of sandy beaches and secluded caves to uncover the hidden gems of the islands. These sensational cruises are capped off by a visit to see Cape Brett and the iconic ‘Hole in the Rock’. This beautifully formed feature even allows boats to pass through, weather permitting and take passengers towards the sights of the Grand Catherdral Cave.

Away from excursion opportunities, the other fantastic attractions of this cruise destination include shopping, dining and a selection of entertainment possibilities. The cuisine here is always a treat and shopping lovers will relish the opportunity to take home a unique souvenir.

Brisbane

A call into Brisbane combines both nature and elegance as you will see when you arrive to the golden Queensland capital coastline. The beaches are lined with favourite Australian pastimes such including surfing, snorkelling and swimming. Here the glorious sandy beaches are truly amazing and this is the ideal place to kick back and relax under the tranquil Australian sunshine. Alternatively, if you are in the mood to explore, then Brisbane has plenty of exciting attractions on offer.

More Than A Beach Resort

Beach lovers will relish the south and its incredible Gold Coast resorts whilst to the north there is the more sedate Sunshine Coast. Brisbane is much more than a beach resort however and the cultural attractions here are excellent. The majority of the major sightseeing here can be done at the South Bank Parklands located close by to the Brisbane River. Here you will find the site of the 1988 World Expo. Just a little further along are two very popular attractions here, these being the Queensland Museum and the State Art Gallery. The art gallery is hugely popular due to its collection of many Aboriginal works. Other fascinating cultural sites include the Maritime Museum here and the Butterfly House. All of these attractions can be explored independently or via an excursion with your cruise operator.

Queen Street

If you feel like enjoying a spot of retail therapy then head for the excellent Myer Centre complex located in the vibrantly commercial Queen Street. Here you will find an abundance of shopping opportunities including household names and of course local boutiques. Often a pleasurable combination is to enjoy the sights and sounds of Queen Street before heading over to the Botanic Gardens for a serene afternoon stroll to take in the exquisite flora and fauna.

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

Excursion opportunities are fantastic in Brisbane and no matter the cruise line you are sailing with, the choice is always excellent here. One of the most popular is the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, the world’s oldest and largest Koala Sanctuary. Here you will discover over 130 koalas amongst the stunning surroundings and beautiful landscapes. The sanctuary was founded in 1927 and has grown to become a hugely popular place to visit for cruise passengers. Alongside the koalas, the sanctuary is also home to a large quantity of other Australian wildlife species such as Kangaroos, Wombats, Emus, Echidnas and even Tasmanian Devils. You’ll also find various species of Reptiles here not forgetting a Platypus.

Steve Irwin Australia Zoo

If discovering the Australian wildlife is up your street then another fascinating attraction is the famous Steve Irwin Australia Zoo with so much to see and do it’s incredible. Established by the late crocodile hunter himself, the zoo is still run by Steve Irwin’s family today and remains one of the country’s leading environmental organisations. This magnificent zoo is a wonderful experience and boasts a remarkable commitment to ensuring the preservation and protection of Australian wildlife. Most excursions here provide ample time to explore but just to be on the safe sound make sure you read the small print and you have at least three hours here as you will most certainly need it. Amongst the impressive wildlife here are freshwater and saltwater crocodiles, kangaroo’s elephants, tigers and wombats. You even have the chance to feed the kangaroos and the elephants. A trip here now also includes the chance to take in the zoo’s latest attraction known as the Africa exhibit. Here you will now find open-plains, which play host to giraffe, zebra and rhinos. Board your Africa Safari Shuttle and capture these mesmerising animals. The highlight of the Zoo however has to be the amazing live crocodile show at the ‘Crocoseum’

Christchurch

The gateway to Christchurch is through Lyttelton and the harbour here is beautifully presented. The narrow waterways provide a blissfully intimate arrival before heading into the charismatic charm of Christchurch itself. Upon arrival to the city, guests are welcomed by a setting of strong cultural heritage. Christchurch is renowned for its cultural sightseeing opportunities and there are many “must see” attractions. A hugely popular method of navigating the major attractions here is to use the city’s brilliant tram system. This links all the distinctive points of interest together on the Cultural Precinct and is definitely worth considering when planning your day. When visiting Christchurch there are many beautiful areas to enjoy but the must see attractions include such sights as the awe inspiring Christchurch Cathedral, the Arts Centre and the delightful Botanical Gardens.

This city may boast an exceptional cultural heritage but there is much more to this metropolis. There is a wonderful entertainment scene here with a fascinating vibrant nature. This vast range of entertainment options continues to wow guests from the moment they arrive and is complimented perfectly by the glorious gardens, parks and superb shopping opportunities. Once again the tram system is often used to navigate such areas, making the city extremely accessible and easy to get around. This fabulous port of call opens up a whole new world. No matter how you wish to spend your time here, there really is something for everyone.

Excursions here with all cruise lines are brilliant, offering a wide variety of exceptional opportunities for an unforgettable experience. An overall city tour will always be an option and there is usually various ways of doing so. Whether you prefer a leisurely day by coach, stopping off at the major attractions or maybe a walking tour through the winding streets to get up close and personal to the city atmospherics, the city highlights offer something for all.

The city is known as the ‘Garden City’ and it is not hard to see why. Venture to the Sign of The Takahe for exceptional views over Christchurch and the impeccable Canterbury Plains. The Bridge Of Remembrance then leads onto the beautiful Botanical Gardens. The gardens are set on the Avon River and many guests here spend several hours roaming the surroundings and admiring the exquisite seasonal displays; the water gardens in particular are stunning. Continuing the theme of sublime scenery, there will also be an opportunity to venture away from the city, further afield via the Lyttelton Railway to the breath taking Arthur’s Pass National Park where you will marvel at the simply spectacular mountain scenery.

Sightseeing extravagance continues with many exciting areas of interest. Take in the amazing Weka Pass Railway for a thrilling adventure, sample the divine local Waipara Winery for a flavoursome afternoon or perhaps visit the International Antarctic Centre for an enthralling simulated experience of life in the coldest place on earth. Alternative excursions include the opportunity for a relaxing day of punting along the Avon River combined with afternoon tea or maybe even up the adrenaline levels with a jet boat adventure for a truly unique way of capturing the stunning scenery.

Christchurch is a glistening port of call to enjoy aboard a cruise. The harbour of Lyttelton provides a welcome reminiscent of a quaint Scottish lock before whisking guests off to a fascinating city.

Melbourne

A laid-back city that’s just bursting with culture, Melbourne is a top destination for cruise holidays. As the second biggest city in the country and host to some spectacular events throughout the calendar, it’s no wonder that people come here year round to soak up the friendly Aussie vibe. From markets to galleries, parks to impressive restaurants and bars, Melbourne has an overwhelming amount of things to do that make it such a fun and exciting cruise destination.

Fashion Focus

You can easily spend an afternoon wandering the shops, cafes, markets and restaurants that permeate Melbourne’s cityscape. Some cruise lines offer a shopping tour whilst at shore, and it’s a great way to find your feet whilst updating your wardrobe. Melbourne is renowned for its fashion focus, and if you’re looking for high-end boutiques then you don’t need to go much further than Collins Street and Little Collins Street. However if you’d rather pick up a few quirky souvenirs to take home, then Queen Victoria Market has everything you could hope for and more.

Culture, History & Sights

If want to soak up the local culture, history and sights during your time in the city, Melbourne has plenty of things to see and do. To learn about the intriguing history of Melbourne and the region, the outdoor museum of Ballarat: Sovereign Hill is a fantastic activity for all ages that gives an insight into the days of the Gold Rush. Alternatively, you might want to learn more about the aboriginal past of Australia and view the fantastic artwork at the Koorie Heritage Trust Cultural Centre. For fun in the sun, the Fitzroy Gardens and Royal Botanic Gardens display a fabulous show of colour and wildlife that makes for a great afternoon and a chance to chill out in the tranquil surroundings.

Food & Drink

After you’ve worked up an appetite with a day of exploring the city, you can rely on Lygon Street for great Italian cuisine that will fill you right up. However for a truly unique experience, visit the Colonial Tramcar Restaurant to whizz through the city whilst tucking into 3 courses in this themed restaurant-on-wheels. On an evening, there are some delightful bars scattered throughout the city; head to a rooftop bar such as Aer bar to watch the sun set over Melbourne with a few cocktails or a taste of local Victorian wines. After dark, there is always a great choice of shows, musicals and live music if you’re looking for things to do in Melbourne on a night.

Beyond The City

Beyond the city, an excursion down the Mornington Peninsula is a gorgeous contrast to the sparkling heights of Melbourne. Here you will find a rustic and fertile landscape that’s rich in tradition and abundant with scenery. Along the way, you can stop off at family vineyards, enjoy some beautiful beaches, and even take up the opportunity to swim with dolphins depending on your cruise operator. For anyone wanting to experience a more natural and unspoilt side to Melbourne and Australia, discovering the secrets of the Mornington Peninsula is a must.

Be Amazed By Melbourne

Melbourne is a vibrant and bustling city that blends culture, shopping, history and gastronomy into one amazing bundle. With the thrills of the city at your feet and a more natural world beyond, it offers a chance to get acquainted with the many characteristics of Australia on your cruise holiday. As such, it’s understandably one of the most popular destinations for Australia and New Zealand cruises, and an essential addition to your itinerary.

Perth is a fascinating city to explore and welcomes cruise passengers with open arms. The wonderfully warm atmosphere combines with the stunning Swan River leading down to the ocean to create a beautiful arrival point for cruise guests. Perth is the capital of Western Australia and believe it or not is actually just as close to Singapore as it is to Sydney, a prime example of the enormity of Australia.

From the moment you arrive here, the relaxed ambience and chilled out aura is contagious. You instantly feel at home here and the city centre itself is ideal for visitors as it is predominantly pedestrian only making navigating your way around much easier. The temperate climate adds to the exquisite modern metropolis and there is so much to see and do here, the choices really are endless.

The parklands here are beautiful and one in particular that steals the show is Kings Park. This location is ideal for cruise passengers looking to just relax and watch the world go by. Many cruise lines will even put together a picnic for you to take with you here. An alternative option is to head for the magnificent Perth Zoo to witness a wide variety of local wildlife. Caversham Wildlife Park, which offers a complete bush experience, is also another exciting attraction to watch an amazing collection of animals in their natural habitat including emus, kookaburras, dingos and crocodiles.

Perth is not the only area to explore when visiting here. Many cruise line excursions offer the chance to combine Perth with a visit to the delightful location of Fremantle. A leisurely drive is a brilliant way to discover Fremantle’s old world charm, which provides a unique collaboration with the vibrant, cosmopolitan city of Perth. Upon your arrival at Fremantle you will instantly notice the quaintness of its terraced housing and charismatic historic buildings. This is a historic city and certainly worth a visit. Whether exploring independently or via a cruise line excursion be sure to include the Western Australia Maritime Museum as it is a fascinating museum to explore. Close by you will also find the UNESCO Fremantle Prison and the 12-sided Round House. This is the oldest building in Western Australia and was originally a jail.

Heading back to Perth now and its sleek, soaring skyscrapers. This city oozes style and is a great place to just stroll around and take it all in. Shopping lovers will relish the many different commercial areas here and there’s always a bar, café or restaurant on hand to take a break for a bite to eat.

Swan Valley is a great place to see and along with its beautiful scenery is also home to some superb wineries. Home to Sandalford Wines, Swan Valley is a must for a spot of wine tasting and you also have the opportunity here to enjoy an insight into the wine making process before sampling fortified wine straight from the oak barrel. This is a brilliant place to visit independently but is often exceptional value for money as an excursion through your cruise operator and by choosing this option, it also often included an Australian lunch at a nearby restaurant.

If you are going to take in Swan Valley then it would almost be a crime not to spend a little time enjoying the gorgeous Swan River. A riverboat ride can be picked up here for a leisurely cruise and you can even enjoy tea or coffee as you glide past the sights.

Perth

Perth is a fascinating city to explore and welcomes cruise passengers with open arms. The wonderfully warm atmosphere combines with the stunning Swan River leading down to the ocean to create a beautiful arrival point for cruise guests. Perth is the capital of Western Australia and believe it or not is actually just as close to Singapore as it is to Sydney, a prime example of the enormity of Australia.

From the moment you arrive here, the relaxed ambience and chilled out aura is contagious. You instantly feel at home here and the city centre itself is ideal for visitors as it is predominantly pedestrian only making navigating your way around much easier. The temperate climate adds to the exquisite modern metropolis and there is so much to see and do here, the choices really are endless.

The parklands here are beautiful and one in particular that steals the show is Kings Park. This location is ideal for cruise passengers looking to just relax and watch the world go by. Many cruise lines will even put together a picnic for you to take with you here. An alternative option is to head for the magnificent Perth Zoo to witness a wide variety of local wildlife. Caversham Wildlife Park, which offers a complete bush experience, is also another exciting attraction to watch an amazing collection of animals in their natural habitat including emus, kookaburras, dingos and crocodiles.

Perth is not the only area to explore when visiting here. Many cruise line excursions offer the chance to combine Perth with a visit to the delightful location of Fremantle. A leisurely drive is a brilliant way to discover Fremantle’s old world charm, which provides a unique collaboration with the vibrant, cosmopolitan city of Perth. Upon your arrival at Fremantle you will instantly notice the quaintness of its terraced housing and charismatic historic buildings. This is a historic city and certainly worth a visit. Whether exploring independently or via a cruise line excursion be sure to include the Western Australia Maritime Museum as it is a fascinating museum to explore. Close by you will also find the UNESCO Fremantle Prison and the 12-sided Round House. This is the oldest building in Western Australia and was originally a jail.

Heading back to Perth now and its sleek, soaring skyscrapers. This city oozes style and is a great place to just stroll around and take it all in. Shopping lovers will relish the many different commercial areas here and there’s always a bar, café or restaurant on hand to take a break for a bite to eat.

Swan Valley is a great place to see and along with its beautiful scenery is also home to some superb wineries. Home to Sandalford Wines, Swan Valley is a must for a spot of wine tasting and you also have the opportunity here to enjoy an insight into the wine making process before sampling fortified wine straight from the oak barrel. This is a brilliant place to visit independently but is often exceptional value for money as an excursion through your cruise operator and by choosing this option, it also often included an Australian lunch at a nearby restaurant.

If you are going to take in Swan Valley then it would almost be a crime not to spend a little time enjoying the gorgeous Swan River. A riverboat ride can be picked up here for a leisurely cruise and you can even enjoy tea or coffee as you glide past the sights.

Sydney

There are few places in the world as impressive as Sydney Harbour when it comes to cruise holidays. As you arrive in this shining city, you get an instant taste of everything that this city stands for; culture, class and a very cosmopolitan lifestyle. During your time in Sydney you can sample some of the very best Australian cuisine, enjoy a wealth of activity, and take some exciting excursions that you will never forget.

Sydney Opera House

Shining like a beacon on the brink of the Sydney shoreline, the iconic Sydney Opera House welcomes visitors to this magnificent Australian city and is just one of the any attractions that make it such a popular cruise destination. Whether you organise a tour, see a show or simply get a few snaps, a visit to the Opera is a must on any visit to Sydney. From here, you can take a walk along the stunning harbour all the way to the Botanic Gardens, which provide a peaceful escape from the bustling city that’s perfect for a hot summer’s day.

Food & Drink

Sydney is blessed with a wealth of places to eat and drink that make it a gem for any food fanatics who want to dine like royalty on their cruise in Australia. From romantic restaurants high above the Sydney skyline to quirky bars and restaurants scattered around the Sydney, there is no shortage of places to wine and dine during your time in the city. And with so many opportunities to shop til you drop, you’ll want to indulge with a few cocktails and a good meal after a day exploring the city. Although Sydney has no end of high street brands and luxury boutiques, for a real experience head to Paddy’s Market, the Chinatown Night Market, or the Sydney Flower Market.

Evening Entertainment

At sunset, Sydney really looks sensational, so find a good spot to watch the sun go down when you’re visiting the city. North Head Lookout is a popular choice, where you can feel the wind rushing against your face as you look out to the horizon. However if you’d rather sip wine as you watch the skyline from indoors, 360 Bar and Dining is a show-stopping spot for a few drinks as you watch day turn to night and the skyline light up as far as the eye can see. On an evening, Sydney has plenty of shows, bars with live music, and great places to socialise if you want to enjoy the city’s nightlife. For the adventurous, climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge on a night is a thrilling activity that you’ll never forget.

Beyond The City

Beyond the city, the vineyards that sprawl across Hunter Valley make a fantastic day trip and a chance to see the beautiful rural side to the south-east of Australia. However if you’d rather soak up the sun, sea and surf of the coast then there are some incredible beaches just outside of Sydney. Bondi and Coogee Beaches offers excellent opportunities for walks along the rocky coastline, whilst Shelley Beach is perfect for swimming. If you have the time, taking a surf lesson at one of the beaches near Sydney is a must!

Say Hello to Sydney

A truly impressive addition to the itinerary of any cruise holiday, Sydney has so much to offer from fantastic food and drink, to culture, and beautiful beaches beyond. With an Australia cruise holiday, you can take in the delights of Sydney as well as other destinations such as Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and more, to soak up the sun and be welcomed by the friendly atmosphere of this incredible country.

Whitsunday Islands

Dive into the delights of Whitsunday Islands on your cruise holiday to see some of the world’s best marine life in a beautiful and exotic setting. Although the Whitsunday Islands may be better known for the Great Barrier Reef that lies below the waters, these tropical islands also offer a wealth of activities beyond diving and snorkelling that make them so mesmerising. From water sports to safaris, this tropical environment is rich with wildlife and is a great place to explore, making it a popular destination for cruise holidays.

The Great Barrier Reef

As the primary attraction of the islands, the Great Barrier Reef is understandably a highlight of any trip to the Whitsunday Islands. One of the seven natural wonders of the world, it boasts the largest system of coral reefs on earth. Although scuba diving might be the most popular activity on an excursion to the Great Barrier Reef, it’s also a fantastic place for swimming and snorkelling. Many cruise operators offer a day excursion to the Reef with the chance to take a trip on a glass-bottomed boat for a relaxing way to view the outstanding marine life.

The Great Barrier Reef is also an important attraction because its presence ensures that the beaches of the Whitsunday Islands are serenely secluded and tranquil. The clear waters and soft sands of hot spots such as Airlie Beach, are a picture perfect place to relax in the sun and paddle in the warm waters of the shoreline. However if you’d rather enjoy a rush of adrenaline during your time on the islands, then ocean rafting is an exciting experience and fun for all ages as you speed along the waters and capture the beautiful views of the coast. Other water sports include kayaking and jet ski safaris, providing plenty of activity for your time in the area.

Beyond The Coastline

Beyond the idyllic coastline, the wetlands and rivers that permeate the islands provide a thriving environment for a whole ecosystem that is waiting to be discovered. Whilst you might find tropical fish, clams and coral reefs beneath the waters, inland there are countless species that call the Whitsunday Islands home, including crocodiles, reptiles, exotic birds and more. On a crocodile safari, you’ll get a chance to explore the wetlands of the islands to witness some amazing scenery and animals in their natural habitat. For nature-loving travellers, it’s a fun bush experience that is sure to be a highlight of your trip.

As the evening draws in, be sure to find a good spot to watch the sun set over the Whitsunday Islands. Although you’ll get a stunning show from the beach, for more panoramic views over the area head up to Hill Inlet for a brisk walk and some great photo opportunities. On a clear evening, the sky lights up with stars and makes for amazing stargazing on the beach. However if you’d rather relax with a cocktail or a glass of wine, then there is a good selection of bars and restaurants around Airlee Beach, the perfect way to round off your day at Whitsunday.

Experience the Wonderful Whitsunday Islands

A serene little paradise off the coast of Queensland, the Whitsunday Islands offer an insight into the unspoilt natural beauty of Australia that is sure to make you fall in love with this fascinating country. Whilst Melbourne, Sydney and the cities are thrilling places to explore, a day or two at the islands will have you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. As such, they are sure to be a highlight of your itinerary on an Australia cruise holiday.